Jaco, Costa Rica is a virtual aquatic playground that offers visitors practically limitless opportunities to enjoy the clear emerald waters of the Pacific. With a yearly average water temperature of 80 degrees, year-round water sports abound. And while Jaco is famous for its surfing, there are plenty of other ways to have fun in and on the water.
Swimming
Jaco has two miles of white, sandy beach, perfect for swimming. The waves are relatively calm here for the Pacific. The water is a beautiful, clear emerald green and remains warm all year long.
Scuba Diving
The pristine waters off Jaco offer some great diving. Several popular dive sites are easily accessible. Beginning divers will love the Middle Reef, where divers will see damsle fish, puffers, snappers, and goat fish in 20-40 feet of clear water. The Garden, with depths ranging from 15-60 feet, has a fascinating display of sea fans, lobsters, surgeon fish, and moray eels. To see huge manta rays up close, visit the Pesebre dive site. Cuevitas gives divers a chance to explore little underwater caves and see the moray eels and whitetip sharks that inhabit them.
Snorkeling
For some world-class snorkeling, take a snorkeling cruise from Jaco to nearby Tortuga Island. The calm, crystal clear water and the dazzling white secluded beach combine to make this an unforgettable snorkeling adventure. Visitors will see an amzing abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, rays, lobsters, and sharks.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Several outfitters in the Jaco area specialize in kayak and canoe tours. Choose from paddling the clear, tranquil waters or riding the swells of the waves. Tours are available for every ability level.
Parasailing
This sport is very popular in Jaco. Amazing views of the coastline, dolphins, whales, and enormous manta rays can be experienced from high in the air as you're pulled behind a boat over the Pacific.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing can be enjoyed at most areas of Playa Jaco when the surf is relatively calm. For some extreme windsurfing, drive north to Lake Arenal, a manmade lake with fast wind speeds that will provide some thrilling rides.
Rafting
Book a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Naranjo River, where you'll experience class III and IV rapids through mountain gorges and plantations. The Savegre River has rapids ranging from class II to class IV and offers beautiful views of waterfalls and lush vegetation.
Sport Fishing
Jaco has some amazing saltwater fishing. Anglers will have the chance to land trophy marlin, sailfish, and huge tuna. Numerous boats and guides can be found at several area marinas.
This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Holle Abee.
So many water-fun options, so little time. Unless you saved so much money by renting a gorgeous private vacation home on your Jaco stay that you have enough dough to extend the vacation by another week or two...